Kamloops Fire Centre officials have responded to 61 person-caused fires since April 1. Forestry officials have also received reports of oversized bonfires and graduation party fires.

Only campfires smaller than a half-metre wide by a half-metre tall are permitted in the Kamloops, Vernon, Penticton, Merritt and Lillooet Fire Zones. People should avoid lighting a campfire in windy conditions and must ensure that at least eight litres of water are available nearby to fully extinguish the fire. Never leave a campfire unattended.

Anyone found in contravention of an open fire ban may be issued a ticket for $345 or, if convicted in court, may be fined up to $100,000 and sentenced to one year in jail. If the contravention causes or contributes to a wildfire, the person responsible may be subject to a penalty of up to $10,000 and be ordered to pay all firefighting and associated costs.

All fires in the Kamloops Fire Centre this year were person-caused and therefore could have been prevented. Although some precipitation has been forecast, the majority of the Kamloops Fire Centre is experiencing "moderate" to "high" fire danger ratings. The Kamloops Fire Centre wants to emphasize how important it is to exercise vigilance when enjoying the outdoors.

The Wildfire Management Branch thanks the public for its co-operation in complying with the current open fire ban and assisting in the detection of wildfires. For the latest information on fire restrictions, visit: www.bcwildfire.ca

To report unauthorized burning or a wildfire, please call *5555 on your cellphone or toll-free to 1 800 663-5555.

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Media Contacts:

Kayla Pepper
Fire Information Officer
Wildfire Management Branch
Kamloops Fire Centre
250 554-5530
Kayla.Pepper@gov.bc.ca

Kevin Skrepnek
Fire Information Officer
Wildfire Management Branch
Kamloops Fire Centre
250 554-5964
Kevin.Skrepnek@gov.bc.ca